THE CONCEPT

This Main Avenue garden is a testament to the timeless allure of Renaissance-inspired design and pays homage to era’s ingenious, technical skills. A period captivated by the pursuit of order and the human desire to assert control over nature, the concept explores of the Renaissance fascination with taming waterflow, which is showcased through a mesmerising array of waterfalls and cascades.

THE SPONSORS

Arthritis Research UK (now known as Versus Arthritis) traces its origins to 1936 and is dedicated to achieving a future free from arthritis. The charity seeks to empower people with arthritis to enjoy a good quality of life now, and to offer hope through their ongoing commitment to finding improved treatments now and cures in the future.

DESIGN DETAILS

Three remarkable water features evoke the era’s innovative spirit and mastery of hydraulic engineering. Each water element is meticulously designed to harness the power of gravity and hydrostatic forces, creating a dynamic and harmonious display that captivates the senses.

The first of these water features is the long fountain seat, an inviting stretch adorned with 30 powerful jets. Against the backdrop of lush greenery, this elegant seating area beckons visitors to pause, relax, and contemplate the engaging interplay of water and nature. The precision and control of the jets reference Renaissance ideals of precision and mastery over the environment.

Adjacent to the fountain seat is a breath-taking water cascade replicating the awe-inspiring beauty of Renaissance water features. The cascade’s rhythmic flow enchants the eye and manifests the period’s obsession with the aesthetics of water in motion.

Further enhancing the garden’s allure is a shallow mirror pool, featuring an infinity edge that appears to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. This feature captures the essence of the Renaissance’s fascination with optical illusions and the interaction between art and nature. It invites visitors to contemplate the ever-changing reflections on the water’s surface, creating a sense of serenity and connection with the environment.

PHOTO CREDIT

Helen Fickling